English Reference

Word

cheers

US/ˈtʃɪɹz/

UK/tʃˈiəz/

Definitions

01a drinking toast

A2 · Elementary

interj. something you say when you raise your glass to drink with other people.

interj. a conventional toast used when drinking in company to express goodwill.

“Everyone raised their glasses and said cheers before taking a sip of wine.”

“The host raised his glass and shouted cheers, prompting the entire wedding party to stand and drink to the couple's health.”

Usage

Usually spoken as a standalone exclamation while clinking glasses.

Synonyms

toastbottoms up

02thank you

B1 · Intermediate British English · Informal

interj. a casual way to say thank you.

interj. an informal expression of gratitude or acknowledgement.

“Cheers for the lift home, I really appreciate it.”

“Cheers for pointing out that typo in the report before I sent it to the director.”

Teaching tip

This usage is very common in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand but is less frequent in American English.

Synonyms

thanksta

03goodbye

B1 · Intermediate British English · Informal

interj. a casual way to say goodbye, especially at the end of an email.

interj. an informal valediction used when departing or as a sign-off in correspondence.

“I'll see you at the station tomorrow then. Cheers.”

“He ended the quick email with a casual cheers before heading out to catch his train.”

Teaching tip

Often used as a friendly, low-pressure way to end a conversation or a short message.

Synonyms

byesee ya

Antonyms

hello

Related words

applauseclinkgoodbyethank you

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.A2 KeyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.3.0–4.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 2.0–2.524–43TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.225–549
Frequency
Common
Level
A2 · Elementary
Updated

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